U.S. patent number 9,685,984 [Application Number 15/080,984] was granted by the patent office on 2017-06-20 for feet for multi-position computing device.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC. The grantee listed for this patent is Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC. Invention is credited to Spencer Eggert, Timothy G. Escolin, Michael Harding, James Alec Ishihara, Shalini Majumdar.
United States Patent |
9,685,984 |
Majumdar , et al. |
June 20, 2017 |
Feet for multi-position computing device
Abstract
Feet for a multi-position computing device are described. In one
or more implementations, a multi-position computing device is
configured to include a base and a display device connected to the
base by a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism is operable to
position the display device into multiple positions relative to the
base including at least an upright position and a laid-down
position. An arrangement of feet on the underside of the base is
designed to facilitate dynamic movement of the device into the
multiple positions. The arrangement of feet includes sliding feet
that engage for sliding of the base across a surface when pressure
is applied to the hinge mechanism for transitions between
positions. The arrangement of feet also includes tacky feet that
engage and resist sliding of the base across the surface in the
absence of pressure applied to the hinge mechanism.
Inventors: |
Majumdar; Shalini (Bellevue,
WA), Eggert; Spencer (Redmond, WA), Harding; Michael
(Seattle, WA), Escolin; Timothy G. (Seattle, WA),
Ishihara; James Alec (Bellevue, WA) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC |
Redmond |
WA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Microsoft Technology Licensing,
LLC (Redmond, WA)
|
Family
ID: |
58609958 |
Appl.
No.: |
15/080,984 |
Filed: |
March 25, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04B
1/3877 (20130101); F16M 11/2021 (20130101); F16M
11/10 (20130101); G06F 1/1616 (20130101); G06F
1/166 (20130101); A47B 91/00 (20130101); F16M
11/20 (20130101); F16M 2200/08 (20130101); H05K
5/0234 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
F16M
11/20 (20060101); H04B 1/3877 (20150101); G06F
1/16 (20060101); H05K 5/02 (20060101); A47B
91/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;248/188,188.1,188.2,188.8,129 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Other References
"Cool Feet Laptop Cooling Pads", Retrieved at:
http://radtech.com/products/coolfeet-- on Nov. 30, 2015, 2 pages.
cited by applicant .
"Breadboard Feet and Seats", Retrieved at:
http://www.thorlabs.us/newgrouppage9.cfm?objectgroup.sub.--id=1867--
on Nov. 30, 2015, 3 pages. cited by applicant .
Kunesh,"The Roost Makes Working From Your Laptop a Bit Better on
Your Back", Retrieved at:
http://www.macgasm.net/2014/03/28/roost-makes-working-laptop-bit-better-b-
ack/, Mar. 28, 2014, 3 pages. cited by applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Nguyen; Duc M
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A computing device comprising: a base and a display device
connected to the base by a hinge mechanism operable to position the
display device into multiple positions relative to the base, the
multiple positions including at least an upright position and a
laid-down position; an arrangement of feet disposed on an underside
of the base, the arrangement of feet including: one or more sliding
feet configured to engage and facilitate sliding of the base across
a surface upon which the computing device rests when pressure is
applied to the hinge mechanism to transition between the upright
position and the laid-down position; and one or more tacky feet
configured to engage and resist sliding of the base across the
surface when pressure is applied to the display device in the
laid-down position.
2. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the sliding
feet have a coefficient of friction lower than a coefficient of
friction for the tacky feet.
3. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the pressure
applied to the hinge mechanism is transferred to the sliding feet
by lever action of one or more arms included in the hinge mechanism
to drive the sliding feet into the surface upon which the computing
device rests.
4. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the display
device is configured as a tablet computing device that is
detachable from the base and includes a processing system and
memory configured to execute an operating system when detached from
the base.
5. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the base is
weighted to counterweight the display device and prevent tipping
during transitions between the multiple positions.
6. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the base
includes a stop mechanism configured to control a distance through
which the base travels across the surface during transitions
between the multiple positions.
7. A computing device as described in claim 6, wherein the stop
mechanism comprises a roller configured to travel a set distance
disposed on the underside of the base.
8. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the base is
configured as a chassis including electronic componentry to provide
at least some processing and memory resources for the computing
device.
9. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the sliding
feet comprises roller bearings.
10. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the tacky
feet comprise rubber feet.
11. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the sliding
feet and tacky feet are formed from different thermoplastic
materials having different coefficients of friction.
12. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein each foot
of the arrangement of feet is further configured to act as a pivot,
such that the base is base rotatable around each foot.
13. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the base is
rectangular and the arrangement of feet includes sliding feet
placed in corners along a side of base and tacky feet placed in
corners along an opposing side of the base.
14. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein the display
device and base are physically and communicatively coupled one to
another via the hinge mechanism.
15. A computing device as described in claim 1, wherein: the
upright position comprises a position in which the display device
is raised to an upright angle above the base for vertical
interaction; and the laid-down position comprises a position in
which the display device is lowered to a flat angle over the base
for horizontal interaction.
16. A system comprising: a base and a display device connected to
the base by a hinge mechanism operable to position the display
device into multiple positions relative to the base; an arrangement
of feet disposed on an underside of the base, the arrangement of
feet configured to: facilitate sliding of the base across a surface
upon which the base rests when pressure is applied to the hinge
mechanism to transition between the multiple positions; and resist
sliding of the base across the surface in an absence of pressure
applied to the hinge mechanism.
17. A system as described in claim 16, wherein the arrangement of
feet includes: portions of sliding material engaged when pressure
is applied to the hinge mechanism during transitions between the
multiple positions to enable sliding of the base forward and back
across the surface; portions of tacky material engaged to keep the
base from sliding in the absence of pressure applied to the hinge
mechanism.
18. A system as described in claim 17, wherein at least one foot of
the arrangement of feet includes both sliding material and tacky
material, the tacky material in contact with the surface in the
absence of applied pressure, the at least one foot deformable under
applied pressure to drive the sliding material into contact with
the surface thereby enabling the sliding of the base.
19. An apparatus comprising: a base and a display device connected
to the base by a hinge mechanism operable to position the display
device into multiple positions relative to the base, the multiple
positions including at least an upright position and a laid-down
position; one or more sliding feet arranged on an underside of the
base along a rear edge of the base opposite from a front side of
the apparatus, the sliding feet configured to engage and facilitate
sliding of the base across a surface upon which the apparatus rests
when pressure is applied to the hinge mechanism to transition
between the upright position and the laid-down position; one or
more tacky feet arranged on the underside of the base along a front
edge of the base on the front side of apparatus, the tacky feet
configured to engage and resist sliding of the base across the
surface in an absence of pressure applied to the hinge mechanism;
and a stop mechanism configured to limit a distance the base is
able to travel across the surface during transitions between the
multiple positions.
20. The apparatus as described in claim 19, wherein the sliding
feet and tacky feet are formed from different thermoplastic
materials having different coefficients of friction.
21. An apparatus comprising: a base and a display device connected
to the base by a hinge mechanism operable to position the display
device into multiple positions relative to the base, the multiple
positions including at least an upright position and a laid-down
position; an arrangement of feet disposed on an underside of the
base, the arrangement of feet including a foot that includes: a
slidable portion configured to engage and facilitate sliding of the
base across an adjacent surface upon which the apparatus rests when
pressure is applied to the hinge mechanism to transition between
the upright position and the laid-down position; and a tacky
portion configured to engage and resist sliding of the base across
the adjacent surface when pressure is applied to the display device
in the laid-down position.
22. An apparatus as described in claim 21, wherein the slidable
portion and the tacky portion are formed from different respective
materials of the foot.
23. An apparatus as described in claim 21, wherein: in an absence
of pressure applied to the hinge mechanism, a majority of contact
between the foot and the adjacent surface occurs with the tacky
portion; and when pressure is applied to the hinge mechanism, a
majority of contact between the foot and an adjacent surface occurs
with the slidable portion.
Description
BACKGROUND
Computing devices and operating systems have advanced to provide a
wide range of functionality for different interaction scenarios and
using different device form factors (e.g., tablets, laptops, mobile
phones, desktop, etc.). Along with advances in computing
technology, the design and availability of convertible computing
devices that may be used in multiple different positions or modes
has also increased. For example, tablets and all-in-one device are
available that enable interaction in traditional computing/viewing
modes with the device positioned upright as well as in drawing or
canvas modes in which the device is laid-down at least partially
for interactions with the device display surface. For such
multi-position devices, developers seek to make it easy for users
to transition the device between different modes. However, feet
used with computing device are traditionally tacky feet (e.g.,
rubber or sticky composite) designed to hold the device in
position. Consequently, traditional feet arrangements may inhibit
dynamic movement into different positions to enable corresponding
interaction scenarios.
SUMMARY
Feet for a multi-position computing device are described. In one or
more implementations, a multi-position computing device is
configured to include a base and a display device connected to the
base by a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism is operable to
position the display device into multiple positions relative to the
base including at least an upright position and a laid-down
position. An arrangement of feet on the underside of the base is
designed to facilitate dynamic movement of the device into the
multiple positions. The arrangement of feet includes sliding feet
that engage for sliding of the base across a surface when pressure
is applied to the hinge mechanism for transitions between positions
and movement across surfaces. The arrangement of feet also includes
tacky feet that engage and resist sliding of the base across the
surface in the absence of pressure applied to the hinge
mechanism.
Accordingly, the base slides forward on the sliding feet as the
hinge mechanism is used to pull the display device downward into
the laid-down position and then the base is held in place by the
tacky feet during interaction in the laid-down position. When the
hinge mechanism is manipulated to return the display device to the
upright position, the sliding feet are engaged again and the base
slides backward for interaction in the upright position. The
dynamic movement of the device between positions is made possible
due in part to differences in coefficients of frictions associated
with materials employed for the arrangement of feet and lever
action of the hinge mechanism to selectively engage the sliding
feet during transitions.
This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a
simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed
Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features
or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it
intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the
claimed subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The detailed description is described with reference to the
accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a
reference number identifies the figure in which the reference
number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in
different instances in the description and the figures may indicate
similar or identical items. Entities represented in the figures may
be indicative of one or more entities and thus reference may be
made interchangeably to single or plural forms of the entities in
the discussion.
FIG. 1 is an illustration of an environment in an example
implementation that is operable to employ the techniques described
herein.
FIG. 2 depicts an example scenario in which movement of the display
device in relation to the base is represented in accordance with
one or more implementations.
FIG. 3A depicts a side view of a transition of a device between an
upright position and a laid-down position in accordance with one or
more implementations.
FIG. 3B a side view of a reverse transition of the device of FIG.
3A from the laid-down position back to the upright position in
accordance with one or more implementations.
FIG. 4 depicts an example arrangement of feet for an example
computing device in accordance with one or more
implementations.
FIG. 5 depicts an additional example arrangement of feet for an
example computing device that employs a stop mechanism in
accordance with one or more implementations.
FIG. 6 depicts an example slate device that employs an arrangement
of feet to facilitate transitions between positions in accordance
with one or more implementations.
FIG. 7 depicts an example representation of a multi-composition
foot in accordance with one or more implementations.
FIG. 8 illustrates an example system including various components
of an example device that can be implemented as any type of
computing device as described with reference to FIGS. 1-7 to
implement the techniques described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Overview
Feet designs traditionally used with computing devices employ tacky
feet (e.g., rubber or sticky composite) designed to hold the device
in position. Consequently, traditional feet arrangements may
inhibit dynamic movement into different positions to enable
corresponding interaction scenarios.
Feet for a multi-position computing device are described that are
designed to facilitate dynamic movement of the device into multiple
positions. In one or more implementations, a multi-position
computing device is configured to include a base and a display
device connected to the base by a hinge mechanism. The hinge
mechanism is operable to position the display device into multiple
positions relative to the base including at least an upright
position and a laid-down position. An arrangement of feet on the
underside of the base includes sliding feet that engage for sliding
of the base across a surface when pressure is applied to the hinge
mechanism for transitions between positions. The arrangement of
feet further includes tacky feet that engage and resist sliding of
the base across the surface in the absence of pressure applied to
the hinge mechanism.
Accordingly, the base slides forward on the sliding feet as the
hinge mechanism is used to pull the display device downward into
the laid-down position and the base is then held in place by the
tacky feet during interaction in the laid-down position. When the
hinge mechanism is manipulated to return the display device to the
upright position, the sliding feet are engaged again and the base
slides backward for interaction in the upright position. The
dynamic movement of the device between positions is made possible
due in part to differences in coefficients of frictions associated
with materials employed for the arrangement of feet and lever
action of the hinge mechanism to selectively engage the sliding
feet during transitions. The feet also facilitate moving of the
device forward and back along a surface without transitioning of
the device between different device positions.
Feet for a multi-position computing device as described herein make
it easier for users to move a device around on a desk or other
surface and/or transition the device into different positions. The
feet may be configured to enable different interaction modes such
as a viewing mode and a canvas/drawing mode, which increases the
ways in which users are able to use the device. The feet facilitate
relatively effortless transitions between different modes, which
can increase user interest in and satisfaction with the device.
In the discussion that follows, a section titled "Operating
Environment" is provided that describes an example environment
suitable to employ the feet for a multi-position computing device
techniques described herein. Following this, a section titled "Feet
Arrangement Details" describes example techniques, devices,
arrangements, and details in accordance with one or more
implementations. Last, a section titled "Example System" describes
example computing systems and devices that can employ feet
arrangements described herein in accordance with one or more
implementations.
Operating Environment
FIG. 1 is an illustration of an environment 100 in an example
implementation that is operable to employ techniques described
herein. The illustrated environment 100 includes a computing device
102 implemented as a multi-position device designed to assume a
variety of configurations. As illustrated, for instance, the
computing device 102 assumes a "desktop" configuration in which the
computing device is configured in an upright position to be placed
on a desk or other surface and used for traditional desktop
computing. As described in detail below in relation to FIG. 2, the
computing device 102 can also assume a "canvas" or "drawing"
configuration in which the computing device is configured in a
laid-down position for use as a table-top or surface computing
device.
Generally, the computing device 102 may be configured as a various
kinds of devices, such as a desktop computer, a mobile station, an
entertainment appliance, a set-top box communicatively coupled to a
display device, a wireless phone, a game console, and so forth. The
computing device may provide a wide range of device functionality
and be capable of communicating over a network to access resources
available via service providers and other devices. The computing
device 102 may range from full resource devices with substantial
memory and processor resources (e.g., personal computers, game
consoles) to a low-resource device with limited memory and/or
processing resources (e.g., traditional set-top boxes, hand-held
game consoles). Additionally, although a single computing device
102 is shown, the computing device 102 may be representative of a
plurality of different devices, such as a remote control and
set-top box combination, an image capture device and a game console
configured to capture gestures, and so on.
In the example of FIG. 1, the computing device 102 includes a base
104 that is communicatively and physically connected (e.g.,
rotationally) via a hinge mechanism 106 to a display device 108.
Various devices, components, interfaces, and circuitry to provide
various computing functionality of the computing device 102 may be
implemented in the base 106, as part of the display device 108,
and/or by the base 104 and display device 108 in combination. For
instance, the base 104 may be configured as a chassis including
electronic componentry to provide at least some processing and
memory resources for the computing device. The base 104 may also be
weighted to counterweight the display device and prevent tipping
during transitions between the multiple positions. Alternatively,
the base may act as primarily as a weighted stand that provides
little or no computing functionality.
The display device 108 may include a variety of functionality, such
as to include touchscreen functionality to recognize gestures and
other inputs. Rotation of the display device 108 in relation to the
base 104 of may be utilized to support a variety of different
functionality and operational modes, as described above and below.
In implementations, the display device 108 is configured as a slate
computing device that includes a processing system, memory, an
operating system and/or other computing functionality. In addition
or alternatively, the display device 108 may be detachable from the
base. In configurations as a slate device, the processing system
and memory of the display device 108 are configured to execute an
operating system and provide other computing functionality when
detached from the base.
The hinge mechanism 106 may be configured in various ways to
connect the base 104 to the display device 108 and enable
manipulation of the display device 108 into multiple positions
relative to the base 108. The multiple positions included at least
an upright position and a laid-down position as described in this
document. Various intermediate positions are also contemplated in
some scenarios. For instance, the hinge mechanism 106 may be
configured to support approximately 180 degrees of rotation or more
of the display device. The hinge mechanism 106 may be configured as
a friction hinge such that a desired angle may be set and is then
maintained. Although represented as being exposed, the hinge
mechanism 106 may be at least partially embedded in the base 106
and even hidden within a base structure. In one or more
implementations, the hinge mechanism 106 may be configured to
permit the display device 108 to move into two or more defined
positions in addition to the rotation, e.g., permit movement of the
display up and down in relation to the base. For instance, the
display device 108 may be connected to the hinge in a manner that
allows the display device 108 to move downward when rotated to a
laid-down position that permits touch inputs to be provided in a
more comfortable manner to a user. Likewise, the hinge may enable
movement of the display device upward when rotated into an upright
position suitable for using the display as a monitor for viewing
and other traditional desktop computing interactions. The hinge may
be configured to catch and "lock-in" to positions at different set
angles to establish the two or more defined positions.
Alternatively, the hinge may support continuous positioning of the
display at any angle through a range of motion supported by the
hinge.
In the example implementation represented in FIG. 1, the hinge
mechanism 106 includes a pair of arms 110, which are connected to
the base 104 via first pivotable members 112 and connected to the
display device 108 by pivotable connector members 114. The arms 110
and pivotable members 112, 114 are configured to enable positioning
of the display device 108 into multiple positions relative to the
base 104 for different types of interactions and operational modes.
The arms may be mechanically operated by a user to raise, lower,
and rotate the display device. The hinge mechanism 106 may also be
implemented using electronic assistance devices, such as actuators,
clutch mechanisms, and sensors designed to provide at least some of
the force required to raise, lower, and rotate the display device
and thereby reduce the amount of force a user has to apply to
transition the device into different positions. The apparent force
that the user applies to move the device is then approximately
constant and close to zero (e.g., so that the device seems to float
and move with little effort). A variety of other examples are also
contemplated without departing from the spirit and scope
thereof.
In connection with transitioning of a multi-position device into
different positions, an arrangement of feet may be included with
the computing device to facilitate dynamic movement of the device.
The arrangement of feet includes feet formed from different
materials having different coefficients of friction. As represented
in FIG. 1, the feet may include one or more tacky feet 116 and one
or more sliding feet 118 that are disposed on an underside of the
base 104. Siding feet 118 engage for sliding of the base across a
surface when pressure is applied to the hinge mechanism for
transitions between positions. Tacky feet 116 engage to resist
sliding of the base across the surface in the absence of pressure
applied to the hinge mechanism. Generally, a single material having
a desired coefficient of friction is selected and used for each
individual foot in the arrangement. In addition or alternatively,
at least some feet in the arrangement are configured to have a
combination of both tacky and slippery portions. In this case,
different portions of a foot made from different materials are
designed to contact the surface at different times (e.g., as
pressure applied to the foot changes), which changes how readily
the foot slides on the surface.
The computing device 102 is further illustrated as having a
processing system 120 with one or more processors and devices
(e.g., CPUs, GPUs, microcontrollers, hardware elements, fixed logic
devices, etc.) and one or more computer-readable media 122. One
example of a computing system that can represent various systems
and/or devices including the computing device 102 is shown and
described below in relation to FIG. 8. Computer-readable media 122
can include both "computer-readable storage media" and
"communication media," examples of which can also be found in the
discussion of the example computing system of FIG. 8.
The computing device 102 may further include an operating system
and other applications that reside on the computer-readable media
122 and which are executable by the processing system 120. The
processing system 120 may retrieve and execute computer-program
instructions from applications to provide a wide range of
functionality to the computing device, including but not limited to
gaming, office productivity, email, media management, printing,
networking, web-browsing, and so forth. A variety of data and
program files related to the applications can also be included,
examples of which include games files, office documents, multimedia
files, emails, data files, web pages, user profile and/or
preference data, and so forth.
Feet Arrangement Details
To further illustrate details regarding feet arrangements for a
multi-position computing device, consider now the examples of FIGS.
2, 3A, and 3B, which represent example scenarios in which a device
is transitioned into different positions. In particular, FIG. 2
depicts generally at 200 an example scenario in which movement of
the display device 108 in relation to the base 104 is represented.
In the illustrated example, the display device 108 is shown from a
"back side" of the device (e.g., side opposite the viewing screen
on a "front side") as being positioned in relation to the base 108
into different example positions 202, 204. Display device 108 may
be transitioned back and forth between the example positions 202,
204 (and other positions in-between) using the techniques described
herein.
In the position 202, the display device 108 is illustrated as
generally disposed in an "upright" configuration such that a user
may view the display device 108 in a manner that mimics interaction
with a desktop computer. In the upright position, the display
device is raised to an upright angle 206 above the base for
vertical interaction. Generally, the upright angle 206 formed
between the plane of the display on the backside and the base or
surface on which the device rests is forty-five degree or greater.
For example, the upright angle 206 in the illustrated example is
approximately ninety degrees.
The display device 108 may also be rotated using the hinge
mechanism 106 to "lay down" over the base and/or against the
surface on which the base rests as represented by position 204.
Position 204 may be thought of as a "canvas" or "drawing"
configuration in which a user may interact with touchscreen
functionality of the display device 114, e.g., via gestures, a
stylus, touch input, and so on. In this way, a user may comfortably
interact with the display device to perform handwriting, drawing,
painting, graphic design, and so on. In the laid-down position, the
display device 108 is lowered to a relatively flat angle 208 over
the base 104 for horizontal interaction. Generally, the flat angle
208 formed between the plane of the display on the backside and the
base or surface on which the device rests is less than forty-five
degrees. For example, the flat angle 208 in the illustrated example
is approximately thirty degrees.
In this context, FIG. 3A depicts generally at 300 a side view of a
transition of a device between an upright position and a laid-down
position. Further, FIG. 3A represents sliding of the base 104 that
occurs in conjunction with the transition due to an arrangement of
feet included with the base. For example, a computing device 102 in
position 204 (e.g., upright) is represented as resting upon a
surface 302 such a desk or table. From this position, interaction
304 represented by dashed arrows to rotate the display outward and
down is used to cause the computing device to assume the position
204 (e.g., laid-down). Interaction 304 may represent grasping of
the display by a hand(s) of a user to engage the hinge mechanism
106 and thereby rotate and lower the display device 108 into
position 204. Interaction 304 may further include pulling of the
device forward towards an edge 305 of the surface 302 so the device
is move closer in position 204 to a user on the far side of the
edge 305.
Pressure that is applied due to the interaction 304 is transferred
by lever action of one or more arms included in the hinge mechanism
to drive sliding feet 118 into the surface 302 upon which the
computing device rests. In the depicted arrangement, pressure
represented by arrow 306 is transferred via the hinge mechanism 106
generally to a back side of the base (e.g., side opposite the
viewing screen). This causes the base 104 to tilt slightly onto its
back edge and particularly onto feet disposed on the back edge. In
implementations, the feet disposed on the back edge are configured
as sliding feet 118 as described herein that facilitate sliding of
the base when the feet are engaged. Consequently, the pulling
action included as part of interaction 304 is effective to cause
the base 104 to slide on the sliding feet 118 a distance forward
along the surface 302 as represented by the arrow 308.
When the device is in position 204 with the base 104 moved forward
towards the edge 305, a user is able to more easily interact with
the device using touch, a stylus, or other interaction from
"over-the-top" of the display. Such interaction that occurs on the
top of the display generally applies pressure represented by arrow
310 to a front side of the base 104. This causes the base 104 to
tilt slightly onto its front edge and in particular onto feet
disposed along the front edge. In implementations, the feet
disposed on the front edge of the base are configured as tacky feet
116 described herein that resist sliding of the base and act to
hold the base in place when the feet are engaged.
FIG. 3B depicts generally at 312 a side view of a reverse
transition of the device of FIG. 3A from the laid-down position
back to the upright position. Here, interaction 314 represented by
dashed arrows to engage the hinge mechanism 106 causes the
computing device to return to the position 202 (e.g., upright).
Interaction 314 may represent grasping of the display by a hand(s)
of a user to rotate the display device 108 upward and at the same
time apply pressure to engage sliding feet 118 disposed along a
back edge of the base 104 and push the base backwards. Accordingly,
pressure represented by arrow 314 is effective to tilt the base 104
slightly back, engage the sliding feet 118, and cause the base to
slide on the sliding feet back from the edge 305 a distance as
represented by arrow 316.
Although FIGS. 3A and 3B represent sliding that occurs in
connection with transitioning of the device between positions, the
feet may also facilitate moving of the device forward and back
along a surface without transitioning of the device between
different device positions. For instance, grasping of the display
provides and pulling or pushing lateral produce sufficient pressure
to engage sliding feet 118 disposed along a back edge. This may
occur with or without also rotating the display up or down to
change positions. Accordingly, arrangements of feet as discussed
herein are effective to simply slide a device easily back and forth
across a desk of other surface.
Details and examples regarding arrangements of feet for a
multi-position computing device are discussed in relation to the
examples of FIGS. 4-7. In particular, FIG. 4 depicts generally at
400 an example arrangement of feet for an example computing device.
A side view 402 is illustrated of a computing device 102 having a
base 104 and a display device 108 connected by a hinge mechanism
106 as discussed in relation to FIGS. 1-3. The example computing
device is further illustrated as including an arrangement of feet
on an underside 404 of the base 104 for the device.
An arrangement of feet may be configured in various ways to
facilitate dynamic movement of a multi-position device as discussed
herein. Generally, the arrangement of feet includes one or more
tacky feet 116 and one or more sliding feet 118 that are disposed
on an underside of the base 104. In implementations, the tacky feet
116 are arranged along an edge of the base toward a front side 406
of the device. The front side 406 correspond to the side of the
device from which interaction of the device typically occurs and
the side to which the screen of the display device is pointed.
Tacky feet 116 placed toward the front side 406 of the device are
configured to keep the base from sliding when used in a laid-down
position and otherwise in the absence of pressure applied to the
hinge.
In implementations, the sliding feet 118 are arranged along an edge
of the base opposing the tacky feet 116 toward a back side 408 of
the device. The back side 408 corresponds to the side of the device
opposite the screen of the display device is pointed. The back side
408 may include various ports and connectors of the device, such as
USB ports, a power cord connection, A/V outputs and so forth.
Sliding feet 118 placed toward the back side 408 of the device are
configured to enable sliding of the base when pressure is applied
to the hinge to transition the device between different
positions.
Sliding feet 118 and tacky feet 116 may be formed using various
materials and may also be arranged in various patterns and
configurations. Generally, the sliding feet have a coefficient of
friction lower than a coefficient of friction for the tacky feet.
As represented in FIG. 4, the feet are configured to protrude at
least partially from the underside 404 of the base such that feet
contact a surface upon which the computing device 102 is placed,
and the computing device 102 rests on top of the feet.
Different types of feet may be made from different materials, such
as different thermoplastic, rubber, or metal materials having
different coefficients of friction. For example, the tacky feet 116
may be formed as rubber feet made from natural or synthetic rubber
material. The tacky feet may also be formed using a relatively soft
and tacky thermoset plastic or elastomer, and example of which is
Arnitel.RTM.. The tacky feet may be configured as cylindrical or
disk-shaped feet designed to be adhered to the base and/or inserted
into complementary slots or holes formed in the base.
Sliding feet 118 may also be implemented in various ways. For
example, the sliding feet may be configured as plastic or metal
roller bearings or rollers. Sliding feet 118 may also be configured
as cylindrical or disk-shaped feet designed to be adhered to the
base and/or inserted into complementary slots or holes formed in
the base. The sliding feet 118 may be formed using a relatively
hard thermoset plastic, and example of which is Derlin.RTM.
(polyoxymethylene).
As noted, various patterns and configurations may be employed for
the feet in different scenarios. By way of example and not
limitation, the base depicted in the example of FIG. 4 is
rectangular shaped. Here, the arrangement of feet includes a pair
of sliding feet placed in corners of the rectangle along one side
of the base (e.g., the back side) and a pair of tacky feet placed
in corners of the rectangle along an opposing side of the base
(e.g., the front side). In other arrangements, additional or fewer
feet may be employed and other patterns may be used. For example,
feet may be configured as larger bands or strips that extend along
respective edges. In this case, a single sliding foot and/or a
single tacky foot may replace respective pairs of feet. Moreover,
additional feet may be disposed in a pattern between the corners
and/or in interior locations of the underside 404. Each foot of the
arrangement of feet may be further configured to act as a pivot,
such that the base is base rotatable around each foot. This makes
it easy for a user to spin the computing device into different
positions for viewing, collaboration with others, demonstrations,
and so forth. Naturally, the base 104 may also be implemented using
different shapes in which case the arrangement of feet may be
adapted accordingly to correspond to the shape of the base.
FIG. 5 depicts generally at 500 an additional example arrangement
of feet for an example computing device that employs a stop
mechanism in accordance with one or more implementations. A side
view 502 is again illustrated of a computing device 102 having a
base 104 and a display device 108 connected by a hinge mechanism
106 as discussed in relation to FIGS. 1-3. In this example, the
underside 504 of the base includes feet that may be arranged in
various ways as previously discussed. In the depicted example,
pairs of tacky and sliding feet are arranged at corners of the
rectangular base in accordance with the example discussed in
relation to FIG. 4.
The arrangement of feet in the example of FIG. 5 additionally
includes a stop mechanism 506 disposed on the base. The stop
mechanism 506 may be configured in various ways to control a
distance through which the base 104 travels across a surface during
transitions between multiple positions. For instance, the stop
mechanism 506 may be implemented to set and control the sliding
distance represented by arrow 308 in FIG. 3A and arrow 316 in FIG.
3B. The stop mechanism 506 enables dynamic sliding of the base a
consistent distance forward and back so the device is located at
desired positions for interaction in different configurations. The
stop mechanism 506 helps prevent a user from inadvertently pulling
the device over an edge 305 of the surface 302 on which the device
rest or pushing the device too far backward.
Various configurations of a stop mechanism 506 are contemplated.
For example, the stop mechanism 506 may be implemented as one or
more rollers configured to travel a set distance. The set distance
may correspond to a lateral distance across a surface and/or a set
number of revolution of the rollers. The rollers are designed to
have limited travel in both forward and backwards rotation. This
creates a limit range of travel for the roller after which the
roller is locked in place using a clutch, pin, ratchet, or other
locking mechanism. At this point, the roller provides resistance to
prevent the based from sliding further in the direction of travel.
Thus, the base 104 is able to slide forward on sliding feet 118 for
the distance established by the rollers and then is prevented for
traveling further forward. The base 104 may then be slid backwards
for the distance established by the rollers at which point the
roller is again locked in place to prevent further travel
backwards.
As represented in FIG. 5, the stop mechanism 506 is represented as
a single roller configured to travel a set distance disposed on the
underside 504 of the base 104. In this example, the roller is
embedded in a rectangular cutout within the base and protrudes out
from the base approximately the same amount as the feet. The roller
is positioned on the interior of the base and configured to roll in
forward and backward directions towards the front side and back
side of the device respectively. The roller may also operate to
restrict sideways movement of the device, which helps prevent the
base from twisting laterally. Naturally, one or more rollers may be
employed and the location of the rollers may be changed in
different implementations.
Various alternative implementations of the stop mechanism 506 are
also contemplated. For example, the stop mechanism 506 may be
implemented as a stop bar or additional feet elements that
"pop-out" after a set distance of sliding. In another example, the
stop mechanism 506 may employ stop elements (feet, bars,
stabilizers, etc.) that are engaged and disengaged based on travel
of the hinge mechanism 106. In this case, various stop elements may
be mechanically connected to the hinge mechanism and configured to
contact a surface 302 on which the device rest to establish the
upright and laid-down positions as well as to restrict sliding to a
set distance. In yet another example, rather than having a separate
component, the stop mechanism 506 may be integrated as part of the
feet included in the arrangement of feet. For instance, sliding
feet 118 may be implemented as rollers or bearings that are
designed to have a limited travel range. Consequently, the sliding
feet 118 act as a stop mechanism 506 in addition to facilitating
sliding.
Additionally, the stop mechanism 506 may include an adjuster to
enable a user to set and adjust the travel distance. For example,
an adjustment dial or gear may establish how far a stop mechanism
506 in the of a roller is able to rotate and consequently may be
used to customize the travel distance. Generally, the adjuster is
configured to set boundaries for either or both of forwards and
backwards travel of the base.
It is noted that the example computing device 102 discussed in the
preceding examples is representative of various different
configurations of multi-position devices that may take advantage of
feet arrangements and concepts discussed herein. It is contemplated
that the techniques described herein may be applied in the context
of various kinds of devices including various desktop
configurations, laptops, tablet/slate devices, and mobile form
factors. By way of example and not limitation, an example in which
the feet arrangements and techniques described herein are applied
in the context of a slate device is shown and described in relation
to FIG. 6.
In particular, FIG. 6 depicts generally at 600 an example slate
device that employs an arrangement of feet to facilitate
transitions between positions in accordance with one or more
implementations. In this example, a side view of a computing device
602 having a slate form factor is shown. The computing device 602
employs and adjustable kickstand 604 that acts as a hinge mechanism
106 to enable the computing device 602 to attain various different
positions. As represented by dashed lines, the computing device 602
may optionally include an accessory device 606 that can be
physically and communicatively coupled to the computing device 602.
The accessory device 606 may be configured in various ways, such as
being implemented as a keyboard, a cover, a combined keyboard
cover, a wireless interface, a battery device, a game controller,
and other accessories that provide "add-on" functionality.
The computing device 602 is represented in FIG. 6 as transitioning
between an upright position 608 and a laid-down position 610
through operation of the kickstand 604. For example, sliding the
kickstand outward from the computing device 602 causes the device
to tilt down and assume the laid-down position 610. Sliding the
kickstand inward toward the computing device 602 causes the device
to tilt up and assume the upright position 608. Transitions between
these positions and various intermediate positions can be
facilitated by employing feet as described in this document.
In particular, the example in FIG. 6 represents one or more tacky
feet 116 as being disposed along an edge of the computing device
602 that rest on the surface 302. Tacky feet 116 may be implemented
in various ways, such as feet placed in the corners, a tacky strip
that extends along the edge, and so forth. Sliding feet 118 are
depicted as being disposed along an edge of the kickstand 604 that
is in contact with the surface 302 and supports the device. Sliding
feet 118 may also be implemented in various ways, such as feet
placed in the corners, a strip of hard plastic that extends along
the edge, and so forth. In accordance with concepts described
herein, the sliding feet 118 assist sliding of kickstand 604 to
assume different positions. Additionally, when a user grasps the
computing device 602 device at the sides and pulls or pushes,
pressure is transferred to the sliding feet 118 via the kickstand
604, which makes it easy to slide the device forward and back. When
the device is being used in the laid-down position 610 or the
upright position 608 (e.g., when pressure is not being applied to
the sliding feet), the tacky feet 116 provide resistance that keeps
the device in place and prevents sliding.
Arrangements of feet in accordance with the preceding examples may
employ different configurations of feet made from different
materials and having different coefficients of friction. In
implementations, individual feet are formed having a consistent
composition. In other words, slippery feet are formed using
slippery material and tacky feet are formed using a tacky material.
In this approach, slippery feet are separate from tacky feet.
Alternatively, at least some feet in the arrangement are configured
to have a combination of both tacky and slippery portions. In this
case, different portions of a foot made from different materials
are designed to contact the surface at different times (e.g., as
pressure applied to the foot changes), which changes how readily
the foot slides on the surface. For example, a foot may be
configured as a flexible bubble having layers or rings of different
compositions. The different layers or rings have different
coefficients of friction. The bubble deforms under pressure, which
changes the surface areas of the different layers or rings that are
in contact with the desk, table, or other surface upon which the
computing device rests. Consequently, a single foot can act as
slippery foot that facilitates sliding in some cases and as a tacky
foot that provides resistance in other cases. By way of example and
not limitation, an example of a multi-composition foot having both
tacky and slippery portions is described in relation to FIG. 7.
In particular, FIG. 7 depicts generally at 700 an example
representation of a multi-composition foot in accordance with one
or more implementations. In the depicted example, a foot 702 in the
form of a flexible bubble is illustrated. The foot 702 includes
bands of different materials including a slippery band 704 and a
tacky band 706. The slippery band 704 has a coefficient of friction
that is lower than a coefficient of friction of the tacky band 706.
Various materials, layouts, and configurations for feet as
described previously herein may be employed in the context of
multi-composition feet represented by the example of FIG. 7.
In the absence of applied pressure as represented at 708, the foot
702 "stands-up" and the majority of contact between the foot and
the surface 302 occurs with the tacky band 706. Consequently, the
foot 702 operates as a tacky foot 116 under these conditions. When
pressure is applied as represented at 710, the foot 702 is
compressed and deforms, which changes the contact points of the
foot with the surface. In implementations, the majority of contact
switches from majority contact with the tacky band 706 to majority
contact with the slippery band 704. For purposes of illustration,
the deformation and switching of contact points is exaggerated in
FIG. 7. Consequently, the foot 702 operates as a slippery foot 118
under these conditions.
Example System and Device
FIG. 8 illustrates an example system generally at 800 that includes
an example computing device 802 that is representative of one or
more computing systems and/or devices that may implement the
various techniques described herein. The computing device 802 may
be, for example, a server of a service provider, a device
associated with a client (e.g., a client device), an on-chip
system, and/or any other suitable computing device or computing
system.
The example computing device 802 as illustrated includes a
processing system 804, one or more computer-readable media 806, and
one or more I/O interface 808 that are communicatively coupled, one
to another. Although not shown, the computing device 802 may
further include a system bus or other data and command transfer
system that couples the various components, one to another. A
system bus can include any one or combination of different bus
structures, such as a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral
bus, a universal serial bus, and/or a processor or local bus that
utilizes any of a variety of bus architectures. A variety of other
examples are also contemplated, such as control and data lines.
The processing system 804 is representative of functionality to
perform one or more operations using hardware. Accordingly, the
processing system 804 is illustrated as including hardware element
810 that may be configured as processors, functional blocks, and so
forth. This may include implementation in hardware as an
application specific integrated circuit or other logic device
formed using one or more semiconductors. The hardware elements 810
are not limited by the materials from which they are formed or the
processing mechanisms employed therein. For example, processors may
be comprised of semiconductor(s) and/or transistors (e.g.,
electronic integrated circuits (ICs)). In such a context,
processor-executable instructions may be electronically-executable
instructions.
The computer-readable storage media 806 is illustrated as including
memory/storage 812. The memory/storage 812 represents
memory/storage capacity associated with one or more
computer-readable media. The memory/storage component 812 may
include volatile media (such as random access memory (RAM)) and/or
nonvolatile media (such as read only memory (ROM), Flash memory,
optical disks, magnetic disks, and so forth). The memory/storage
component 812 may include fixed media (e.g., RAM, ROM, a fixed hard
drive, and so on) as well as removable media (e.g., Flash memory, a
removable hard drive, an optical disc, and so forth). The
computer-readable media 806 may be configured in a variety of other
ways as further described below.
Input/output interface(s) 808 are representative of functionality
to allow a user to enter commands and information to computing
device 802, and also allow information to be presented to the user
and/or other components or devices using various input/output
devices. Examples of input devices include a keyboard, a cursor
control device (e.g., a mouse), a microphone, a scanner, touch
functionality (e.g., capacitive or other sensors that are
configured to detect physical touch), a camera (e.g., which may
employ visible or non-visible wavelengths such as infrared
frequencies to recognize movement as gestures that do not involve
touch), and so forth. Examples of output devices include a display
device (e.g., a monitor or projector), speakers, a printer, a
network card, tactile-response device, and so forth. Thus, the
computing device 802 may be configured in a variety of ways as
further described below to support user interaction.
Various techniques may be described herein in the general context
of software, hardware elements, or program modules. Generally, such
modules include routines, programs, objects, elements, components,
data structures, and so forth that perform particular tasks or
implement particular abstract data types. The terms "module,"
"functionality," and "component" as used herein generally represent
software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof. The
features of the techniques described herein are
platform-independent, meaning that the techniques may be
implemented on a variety of commercial computing platforms having a
variety of processors.
An implementation of the described modules and techniques may be
stored on or transmitted across some form of computer-readable
media. The computer-readable media may include a variety of media
that may be accessed by the computing device 802. By way of
example, and not limitation, computer-readable media may include
"computer-readable storage media" and "computer-readable signal
media."
"Computer-readable storage media" refers to media and/or devices
that enable persistent storage of information in contrast to mere
signal transmission, carrier waves, or signals per se. Thus,
computer-readable storage media does not include transitory media
or signals per se. The computer-readable storage media includes
hardware such as volatile and non-volatile, removable and
non-removable media and/or storage devices implemented in a method
or technology suitable for storage of information such as computer
readable instructions, data structures, program modules, logic
elements/circuits, or other data. Examples of computer-readable
storage media may include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM,
EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital
versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, hard disks,
magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other
magnetic storage devices, or other storage device, tangible media,
or article of manufacture suitable to store the desired information
and which may be accessed by a computer.
"Computer-readable signal media" refers to a signal-bearing medium
that is configured to transmit instructions to the hardware of the
computing device 802, such as via a network. Signal media typically
may embody computer readable instructions, data structures, program
modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as carrier
waves, data signals, or other transport mechanism. Signal media
also include any information delivery media. The term "modulated
data signal" means a signal that has one or more of its
characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode
information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation,
communication media include wired media such as a wired network or
direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF,
infrared, and other wireless media.
As previously described, hardware elements 810 and
computer-readable media 806 are representative of modules,
programmable device logic and/or fixed device logic implemented in
a hardware form that may be employed in some embodiments to
implement at least some aspects of the techniques described herein,
such as to perform one or more instructions. Hardware may include
components of an integrated circuit or on-chip system, an
application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a
field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a complex programmable logic
device (CPLD), and other implementations in silicon or other
hardware. In this context, hardware may operate as a processing
device that performs program tasks defined by instructions and/or
logic embodied by the hardware as well as a hardware utilized to
store instructions for execution, e.g., the computer-readable
storage media described previously.
Combinations of the foregoing may also be employed to implement
various techniques described herein. Accordingly, software,
hardware, or executable modules may be implemented as one or more
instructions and/or logic embodied on some form of
computer-readable storage media and/or by one or more hardware
elements 810. The computing device 802 may be configured to
implement particular instructions and/or functions corresponding to
the software and/or hardware modules. Accordingly, implementation
of a module that is executable by the computing device 802 as
software may be achieved at least partially in hardware, e.g.,
through use of computer-readable storage media and/or hardware
elements 810 of the processing system 804. The instructions and/or
functions may be executable/operable by one or more articles of
manufacture (for example, one or more computing devices 802 and/or
processing systems 804) to implement techniques, modules, and
examples described herein.
As further illustrated in FIG. 8, the example system 800 enables
ubiquitous environments for a seamless user experience when running
applications on a personal computer (PC), a television device,
and/or a mobile device. Services and applications run substantially
similar in all three environments for a common user experience when
transitioning from one device to the next while utilizing an
application, playing a video game, watching a video, and so on.
In the example system 800, multiple devices are interconnected
through a central computing device. The central computing device
may be local to the multiple devices or may be located remotely
from the multiple devices. In one embodiment, the central computing
device may be a cloud of one or more server computers that are
connected to the multiple devices through a network, the Internet,
or other data communication link.
In one embodiment, this interconnection architecture enables
functionality to be delivered across multiple devices to provide a
common and seamless experience to a user of the multiple devices.
Each of the multiple devices may have different physical
requirements and capabilities, and the central computing device
uses a platform to enable the delivery of an experience to the
device that is both tailored to the device and yet common to all
devices. In one embodiment, a class of target devices is created
and experiences are tailored to the generic class of devices. A
class of devices may be defined by physical features, types of
usage, or other common characteristics of the devices.
In various implementations, the computing device 802 may assume a
variety of different configurations, such as for computer 814,
mobile 816, and television 818 uses. Each of these configurations
includes devices that may have generally different constructs and
capabilities, and thus the computing device 802 may be configured
according to one or more of the different device classes. For
instance, the computing device 802 may be implemented as the
computer 814 class of a device that includes a personal computer,
desktop computer, a multi-screen computer, laptop computer,
netbook, and so on.
The computing device 802 may also be implemented as the mobile 816
class of device that includes mobile devices, such as a mobile
phone, portable music player, portable gaming device, a tablet
computer, a multi-screen computer, and so on. The computing device
802 may also be implemented as the television 818 class of device
that includes devices having or connected to generally larger
screens in casual viewing environments. These devices include
televisions, set-top boxes, gaming consoles, and so on.
The techniques described herein may be supported by these various
configurations of the computing device 802 and are not limited to
the specific examples of the techniques described herein. This
functionality may also be implemented all or in part through use of
a distributed system, such as over a "cloud" 820 via a platform 822
as described below.
The cloud 820 includes and/or is representative of a platform 822
for resources 824. The platform 822 abstracts underlying
functionality of hardware (e.g., servers) and software resources of
the cloud 820. The resources 824 may include applications and/or
data that can be utilized while computer processing is executed on
servers that are remote from the computing device 802. Resources
824 can also include services provided over the Internet and/or
through a subscriber network, such as a cellular or Wi-Fi
network.
The platform 822 may abstract resources and functions to connect
the computing device 802 with other computing devices. The platform
822 may also serve to abstract scaling of resources to provide a
corresponding level of scale to encountered demand for the
resources 824 that are implemented via the platform 822.
Accordingly, in an interconnected device embodiment, implementation
of functionality described herein may be distributed throughout the
system 800. For example, the functionality may be implemented in
part on the computing device 802 as well as via the platform 822
that abstracts the functionality of the cloud 820.
EXAMPLE IMPLEMENTATIONS
Example implementations of techniques described herein include, but
are not limited to, one or any combinations of one or more of the
following examples:
Example 1
A computing device comprising: a base and a display device
connected to the base by a hinge mechanism operable to position the
display device into multiple positions relative to the base, the
multiple positions including at least an upright position and a
laid-down position; an arrangement of feet disposed on an underside
of the base, the arrangement of feet including: one or more sliding
feet configured to engage and facilitate sliding of the base across
a surface upon which the computing device rests when pressure is
applied to the hinge mechanism to transition between the upright
position and the laid-down position; and one or more tacky feet
configured to engage and resist sliding of the base across the
surface when pressure is applied to the display device in the
laid-down position.
Example 2
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the sliding feet have a coefficient of
friction lower than a coefficient of friction for the tacky
feet.
Example 3
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the pressure applied to hinge mechanism is
transferred to the sliding feet by lever action of one or more arms
included in the hinge mechanism to drive the sliding feet into the
surface upon which the computing device rests.
Example 4
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the display device is configured as a
tablet computing device that is detachable from the base and
includes a processing system and memory configured to execute an
operating system when detached from the base.
Example 5
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the base is weighted to counterweight the
display device and prevent tipping during transitions between the
multiple positions.
Example 6
a computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the base includes a stop mechanism
configured to control a distance through which the base travels
across the surface during transitions between the multiple
positions.
Example 7
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the stop mechanism comprises a roller
configured to travel a set distance disposed on the underside of
the base.
Example 8
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the base is configured as a chassis
including electronic componentry to provide at least some
processing and memory resources for the computing device.
Example 9
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the sliding feet comprises roller
bearings.
Example 10
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the tacky feet comprise rubber feet.
Example 11
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the sliding feet and tacky feet are formed
from different thermoplastic materials having different
coefficients of friction.
Example 12
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein each foot of the arrangement of feet is
further configured to act as a pivot, such that the base is base
rotatable around each foot.
Example 13
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the base is rectangular and the
arrangement of feet includes sliding feet placed in corners along a
side of base and tacky feet placed in corners along an opposing
side of the base.
Example 14
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein the display device and base are physically
and communicatively coupled one to another via the hinge
mechanism.
Example 15
A computing device as described in any one or more of the examples
in this section, wherein: the upright position comprises a position
in which the display device is raised to an upright angle above the
base for vertical interaction; and the laid-down position comprises
a position in which the display device is lowered to a flat angle
over the base for horizontal interaction.
Example 16
A system comprising: a base and a display device connected to the
base by a hinge mechanism operable to position the display device
into multiple positions relative to the base; an arrangement of
feet disposed on an underside of the base, the arrangement of feet
configured to: facilitate sliding of the base across a surface upon
which the computing device rests when pressure is applied to the
hinge mechanism to transition between the multiple positions; and
resist sliding of the base across the surface in the absence of
pressure applied to the hinge mechanism.
Example 17
A system as described in in any one or more of the examples in this
section, wherein the arrangement of feet includes: portions of
sliding material engaged when pressure is applied to the hinge
mechanism during transitions between the multiple positions to
enable sliding of the base forward and back across the surface;
portions of tacky material engaged to keep the base from sliding in
the absence of pressure applied to the hinge mechanism.
Example 18
A system as described in any one or more of the examples in this
section, wherein at least one foot of the arrangement of feet
includes both sliding material and tacky material, the tacky
material in contact with the surface in the absence of applied
pressure, the at least one foot deformable under applied pressure
to drive the sliding material into contact with the surface thereby
enabling the sliding of the base.
Example 19
An apparatus comprising: a base and a display device connected to
the base by a hinge mechanism operable to position the display
device into multiple positions relative to the base, the multiple
positions including at least an upright position and a laid-down
position; one or more sliding feet arranged on an underside of the
base along a rear edge of the base opposite from a front side of
the apparatus, the sliding feet configured to engage and facilitate
sliding of the base across a surface upon which the apparatus rests
when pressure is applied to the hinge mechanism to transition
between the upright position and the laid-down position; one or
more tacky feet arranged on the underside of the base along a front
edge of the base on the front side of apparatus, the tacky feet
configured to engage and resist sliding of the base across the
surface in the absence of pressure applied to the hinge mechanism;
and a stop mechanism configured to limit a distance the base is
able to travel across the surface during transitions between the
multiple positions.
Example 20
The apparatus as described in any one or more of the examples in
this section, wherein the sliding feet and tacky feet are formed
from different thermoplastic materials having different
coefficients of friction.
CONCLUSION
Although the example implementations have been described in
language specific to structural features and/or methodological
acts, it is to be understood that the implementations defined in
the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific
features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts
are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claimed
features.
* * * * *
References